PHY 053 - Physics and Politics

Course Units: 1 (Same as HST 253 ) (Not Offered this Academic Year) This class will introduce students to some of the most important developments during the twentieth century in modern physics, the theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, and nuclear physics, set in a comparative context of the capitalist democratic United States, fascist National Socialist Germany, and communist Soviet Union. Along with an explanation of how the science works, this class will examine how the political, social, and ideological context can influence science and scientists. No background in mathematics or physics required. CC: SET